🇧🇷 Leeds United’s Push for Igor Paixão: A Defining Summer Saga
As Leeds United look to complete a vital rebuild this summer in preparation for another push toward promotion — or solidifying their status in the Premier League, depending on timing — one name has become the centerpiece of their attacking ambitions: Igor Paixão.
With six signings already confirmed, including midfield dynamo Anton Stach and versatile Sean Longstaff, attention has shifted firmly to Feyenoord’s Brazilian winger as their seventh major addition of the window.
🎯 Why Igor Paixão?
🔥 A Game-Changer Out Wide
Leeds United already have wide options in Jack Harrison, Willy Gnonto, Dan James, and new signing Largie Ramazani, but Daniel Farke appears unconvinced that these players alone can provide the consistent, high-level output required for the long haul. The interest in Paixão is therefore not just opportunistic — it’s strategic.
Paixão combines pace, flair, and a strong end product — key ingredients in turning tight games.
He fits the mould of the modern wide forward: someone who can press, carry the ball into dangerous areas, and also create or finish chances consistently.
With questions lingering about the future or consistency of players like Gnonto or Harrison (especially given recent injuries and form), Paixão is seen as a potential star to reshape Leeds’ front line.
🔄 Manor Solomon Replacement?
Leeds were believed to be tracking Manor Solomon, but that trail has gone cold. With Solomon potentially unavailable or unsuitable given his injury record and high wage demands, Paixão offers a similar profile:
Nimble, left-sided, Brazilian-born (Paixão) and Israeli (Solomon) flair players
Both known for tight ball control and incisive attacking movement
Capable of unlocking low blocks, something Leeds have struggled with historically
Paixão’s arrival would clearly signal the end of that pursuit and offer a more durable and reliable long-term option for Leeds.
🛬 The Battle With Marseille
Leeds are not alone in their admiration for Paixão. Olympique Marseille, one of France’s biggest clubs, have also made him a top target. According to RMC Sport, Paixão even gave an informal green light to Marseille’s proposal. However, the deal has stalled significantly:
Marseille offered €28 million (~£24m) for Paixão.
Feyenoord have rejected the bid outright, standing firm on their £30 million valuation.
Despite their early lead, Marseille appear reluctant or unable to bridge the £6 million gap, opening the door for Leeds.
⚽ Leeds’ Tactical Advantage
Leeds are working quietly but smartly:
Raphinha connection – The club is reportedly using their former star winger, whom Paixão publicly idolizes, to make a personal appeal.
Daniel Farke’s playing style – Suits Paixão’s skillset: high tempo, intelligent wide movement, and freedom to cut inside and influence play.
Regular minutes and key role – Leeds are offering a guaranteed first-team role, while Marseille are reportedly looking at multiple winger options, including Timothy Weah, which could limit Paixão’s playing time in France.
🧠 The Player Profile: Who is Igor Paixão?
📍 Background
Age: 24
Club: Feyenoord (joined from Coritiba in Brazil)
Position: Left winger (can also play right)
Key attributes: Acceleration, dribbling, flair, work rate, crossing
Paixão was instrumental in Feyenoord’s recent successes, contributing regularly with goals and assists in the Eredivisie and European competitions. He’s a direct, creative threat, unafraid to take on defenders and shoot from range. He also tracks back, making him a good fit for the pressing system Daniel Farke prefers.
🗣️ Robin van Persie’s Testimonial
Dutch legend Robin van Persie, who worked with Paixão at Feyenoord, offered a glowing review:
“Paixao is cheerful every day and radiates joy. He’s great to work with; he works incredibly hard, is easy to coach, and is open to everything. Igor has everything you look for in a player, but above all, he has incredible quality.”
Such praise from an elite former striker gives credence to the idea that Paixão is not just a flashy winger — he’s someone with a professional mindset and elite-level upside.
😬 Any Risks?
Injury Concerns
There have been some injury concerns recently surrounding Paixão, though details remain vague. Leeds are believed to be monitoring this closely, but they remain committed to the pursuit unless medical assessments raise red flags.
Contractual Stalemate
Feyenoord are not under pressure to sell, and Paixão is under contract until 2027, giving the Dutch club a strong hand in negotiations. Leeds will have to weigh whether paying the full £30 million is feasible — especially when they’re likely operating on a balanced budget following recent Premier League relegation (if this applies in 2025).
📉 Mixed Reports: Stay or Go?
There are conflicting claims in the Dutch and English media:
Some reports say Paixão is happy to stay another season with Feyenoord.
Others suggest he is actively seeking a new challenge this summer.
The truth likely lies somewhere in between: he’s open to a move, but it has to be the right club and the right terms. That gives Leeds a real chance — but only if they move decisively.
📈 What Next for Leeds?
With the club having already made six key signings, the focus is now on completing one or two major attacking additions. Paixão is top of the list, and with Marseille failing to meet Feyenoord’s asking price, Leeds have a narrow but real window of opportunity.
If they can complete this move, they would add a potentially transformational player to a squad that is beginning to look both balanced and ambitious.
🧩 Possible Leeds XI with Paixão
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Piroe
Ramazani Rutter Paixão
Stach Longstaff
Byram Rodon Struijk Spence
Meslier
Note: Depending on how Daniel Farke uses players like Gnonto or Harrison, Paixão could either start wide or even play centrally in certain tactical shifts.
📝 Summary
Leeds are actively pursuing Igor Paixão as their seventh summer signing
Marseille’s stalled negotiations with Feyenoord offer Leeds fresh hope
The club is using Raphinha’s influence and guaranteed playing time as lures
Feyenoord want £30 million, and Leeds must decide if they’ll go that high
Van Persie’s endorsement adds weight to Paixão’s high ceiling
Injury concerns and mixed reports on player intent create some uncertainty
If completed, this would be one of the biggest signings of Leeds’ summer